Allan D Alder

Allan Dewane Alder passed away June 8, 2026 at age 91 at his home in Kennewick, Washington. He was the first child of Dewane and Della Weber Alder, born February 17, 1935 in Weiser, Idaho. Siblings Anita, Darryl, and Susan followed. In his youth, he enjoyed reading, playing the Hawaiian steel guitar with his band, singing, and going to dances with his sweetheart, Roma Powell, a friend since childhood. Allan served a two-year mission in Ohio and Michigan for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Upon his return, Allan and Roma were married in the Idaho Falls Temple on October 30, 1957.

They made their home in Weiser for a short time before his military service in the Army took them to the territory of Hawaii. He served as a postmaster and later as part of the bomb disposal squad during his two years there. Their oldest son Robert was born during that time. 

After moving back to Weiser, Allan worked for the Union Pacific Railroad at Huntington, Oregon. Four more children, Michael, David, Diana, and Karen joined the family at that time. They then settled in Hermiston, Oregon where Allan continued his railroading career until his retirement in 1995. Two more children, Eric and Steven, joined the family in Hermiston. 

Allan was a talented man who could do anything. He was often found in the wood shop making toys for grandkids or any sort of contraption to make life easier or more enjoyable for someone. He loved photography, reading, camping, coin collecting, spending time with his grandchildren, indexing and doing family history work, supporting worthy causes, and serving in the Church. He loved his country deeply, generously supported many organizations, and showed up to important events for his family and friends whenever possible.

Allan and Roma centered their lives on Jesus Christ and had many opportunities to serve in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Allan served as a Bishop, the first Stake President of the Hermiston Stake, a High Councilor, and Stake Patriarch. He and Roma also served a mission together at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, were ordinance workers in the Portland Temple, and served as the first Temple President and Matron of the Columbia River Temple, which was a highlight of their lives. Allan’s devotion to the Lord was unmatched. You could feel it in the sincerity of his prayers and see it in his commitment to attend his church meetings and weekly temple worship, even up to a week and a half before his death. Allan was beloved by all who knew him because of his genuine caring and Christ-like compassion.

Allan was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Anita (Roy) and Darryl, his dear wife Roma of nearly 65 years, and a great-grandson.

He is survived by his sister Susan (Van), sister-in-law Jo; his 7 children: Robert (Debbie), Michael (Sharon), David, Diana (Jed), Karen (Aaron), Eric (Nova), and Steven (Cher); 37 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and many more who called him Grandpa.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 10376 Ridgeline Dr., Kennewick, Washington with viewing prior to the service from 9:00 A.M. until 9:50 A.M. in the Relief Society Room. Burial with military honors will follow at the Hermiston Cemetery, Hermiston, Oregon. All are invited to attend!

Please share memories of Allan with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Oregon is in care of arrangements.

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